It is truly amazing what one person can do who has absolute conviction and absolute confidence in that conviction. One such person can change the course of history for thousands of years to come for billions of people. I know that sounds cliche and grand, but it really is true.

I find such a person in Paul. Paul changed the then Roman world, which of course was the dominant force in its political and cultural influence. We, here in the United States, are directly influenced by it as Europe was won over to Christ subsequently. It is through this one man that the entire course of history was changed. Now, what kind of man was he?

He had one goal. And that goal was for the gospel to spread to the entire world. He met oppositions after oppositions. But he was unrelenting. He counted his mission more important than his life. How do you stop a man who laughs at death in order to accomplish his mission? Actually, the only reason he avoided death was so that his mission could be accomplished. But in actuality, he really preferred death over life! (For that meant being eternally present with the Lord)

He addressed the mob that wanted him dead. He addressed the prison wardens. He addressed the intellectual elites of the day. He addressed kings and queens. And every time, the message was the same – that Jesus Christ saves!

We have a such message among us. We have that same message flowing through us! How bold we can be with that message that shaped all of history for thousands of years! Do not shy away from the message. Do not feel sheepish among your unbelieving friends or office mates. No message is more sure and confidence-inducing than the good news of Jesus Christ. There is no hope without the gospel!

Have a great weekend!

PH